Shark attacks grew significantly in 2025, reports the International Shark Attack File from the University of Florida. There were 65 unprovoked attacks worldwide, up from 47 in 2024. Fatalities nearly doubled to 12 from seven. The rise could be linked to more great white sharks near popular surfing spots, especially in Australia. "Shark bites are the consequence of the biology of the animals, the climatic conditions and the number of people in the water at the time of the incident," said Gavin Naylor, program director of the Florida Program for Shark Research. Australia faced 21 unprovoked bites and five deaths, a stark increase from nine bites and zero deaths the year before. In one tragic incident, a woman was killed by a bull shark at Crowdy Bay, New South Wales. The US led in total bites with 25, though down three from last year, and recorded one death. Triathlete Erica Fox was found dead near Santa Cruz, California, after disappearing during a swim. Florida had 11 unprovoked bites, with six in Volusia County—still the most shark bites in the world, despite a slight decline. Other US states like California and Hawaii saw four bites each, with no deaths. South Africa recorded its first fatal dusky shark attack, while Canada had its first unprovoked attack since 2021, with a man escaping injury. The three shark species—great white, tiger, and bull sharks—caused most serious bites. Shark populations remain low worldwide due to overfishing. Experts stress the risk of shark bites is very low compared to other hazards. For instance, over 4,000 people drown annually in the US, and lightning kills about 24,000 people globally each year.